Inmate slips out of overcrowded French prison hidden in luggage
According to reports from French broadcaster BFMTV, the escapee took advantage of his cellmate’s release, managing to smuggle himself out unnoticed.
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Authorities in France are investigating a daring prison escape after an inmate at Lyon-Corbas prison slipped out of the facility on Friday by concealing himself in the bag of another prisoner who had just completed their sentence.
According to reports from French broadcaster BFMTV, the escapee took advantage of his cellmate’s release, managing to smuggle himself out unnoticed. Prison officials confirmed the incident and have launched a full investigation.
The man who escaped was reportedly serving multiple sentences and was also under investigation for connections to organised crime. Prosecutors have now opened a judicial inquiry into a potential "organised escape and criminal conspiracy."
The breakout comes amid growing concerns about severe overcrowding at the Lyon-Corbas facility. As of May 1st, 2025, the prison held around 1,200 inmates—nearly double its intended capacity of 678. The Lyon Bar Association had raised red flags about the situation just last month.
